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Viltrox Z1 retro camera flash officially announced


  
   
The previously reported Viltrox Z1 retro camera flash is now officially announced and available for pre-order at:

  • MSRP: 49.99 USD,  56.99 EUR, 47.99 GBP
  • 0.2s-3.5s Recycle Time
  • 1/5000s-1/50000s Flash Duration
  • S1 Sync & S2 Anti-Preflash Modes
  • Extended Battery Life for 10,000 Flashes
  • Matte Silver & Litchi-Grain Leather
  • Guide number: GN 12 (ISO 100, in meters)
  • Flash output adjustment: 7 levels: 1/1 ~ 1/64
  • Flash energy (full power 1/1): 23 W/s
  • Charging time: 3.5 seconds
  • Beam angle: covering the field of view equivalent to a 28mm lens on a full frame
  • Color temperature: 6500 ± 200 K
  • Flash mode: M (manual mode)
  • Flash trigger modes:
    • S1 (flash sync)
    • S2 (pre-flash avoidance)
  • Battery capacity: 3.7V / 1100mAh
  • Number of flashes per charge:  >400
  • Battery charging time (USB-C 5V/2A): about 50 minutes
  • Sleep mode: Automatic
  • Dimensions: 68.5 × 50.2 × 74 mm
  • Weight:  approx. 116 g

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Thypoch released new Simera 28mm & 35mm f/1.4 lenses for Leica M-mount with a new Focus Tab Type II Version




Thypoch released new Simera 28mm f/1.4 and Simera 35mm f/1.4 lenses for Leica M-mount featuring a new Focus Tab Type II Version. These versions have the same optical design as the infinity lock version. The only differences are the focusing mechanism and pricing.

The new lenses are now available for pre-order at B&H Photo.

Thypoch lenses are also sold at Foto Erhardt and WEX Photo.

International readers can purchase Thypoch lenses directly from the official website.

The key features of the new lenses can be found here (check the online store for all Thypoch lenses):

  • 14-blade diaphragm for creamy bokeh and stunning starbursts.
  • 0.4m / 0.45m minimum focus distance for.
  • Floating element design ensures same good definition from infinity to close focus distance.
  • 1950s-inspired red-dot depth-of-field scale for vintage charm and functionality.
  • “Sun” & “Moon” aperture markings for quick switching between click and declick modes, perfect for photo and video use.
  • Tactile 0.7m resistance point to aid rangefinder-to-EVF transitions.


Additional information:

Thypoch Simera 28mm & 35mm f/1.4 Now Available with Type ii Focus Tab Version

Thypoch’s debut lenses, the Simera 28mm & 35mm f/1.4, first launched in 2023, made waves with their fusion of retro aesthetics and modern optical engineering. Now, Simera 28mm and 35mm ASPH type II are available with a crescent-shaped focus tab, offering an enhanced user experience.

Compatible with Leica M, Nikon Z, Fujifilm X, and Canon RF mounts, these new versions replace the infinity-lock mechanism with an ergonomic focus tab, enabling smooth, single-finger focusing.

Simera series is one of the very few M-mount lenses that are designed with floating groups, which ensure identical performance from infinity to close focus. Now with a focus tab, the whole lens mirrors very well the latest Leica Summilux 28mm & 35mm lenses, ensuring precise control and optical quality.

What’s Different?

The only major difference between the two versions is the focusing mechanism and price:

  • Type i (Infinity-Lock Version): Enhances stability by preventing lens rotation during installation, ensuring secure handling. (699 USD)
  • Type ii (Focus-Tab Version): Ergonomically designed for a comfortable grip, enabling smooth, single-finger focusing for seamless operation. (769 USD for Simera 28mm f/1.4, and 749 USD for Simera 35mm f/1.4)

*The Simera 28mm ASPH has a minor appearance improvement on the rear part, which is slightly thinner than Type i, giving it a more streamlined, straight-line look.

Upgrading from Infinity Lock?

Thypoch does not recommend modifying an infinity-lock version to a focus-tab version. The process requires disassembling and recalibrating more than four internal components, which could compromise lens optical performance and mechanical stability. Therefore, Thypoch does not offer conversion services for this reason.

The Simera 28mm & 35mm f/1.4 Type ii (Focus-Tab) Version will be shipped immediately after placing the order. Learn more here.



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Insta360 announced a new X5 8k 360 aсtіоn camera with a bigger sensor and replaceable lenses


Insta360 announced a new X5 8k 360 dеgrее aсtіоn camera (teaser) with a bigger sensor and replaceable lenses - their smartest and toughest model yet:

  • Nехt gеnеrаtіоn асtіоn саmеrа wіth 8К 30fрѕ 360° vіdео сарturе
  • Duаl 1/1.28” ѕеnѕоrѕ рrоvіdе сlаrіtу еvеn іn lоw-lіght соndіtіоnѕ
  • Ѕеnѕоrѕ ѕuрроrt 13.5 ѕtорѕ оf dуnаmіс rаngе fоr ѕtаndоut іmаgіng
  • Тrірlе АІ Сhір еnhаnсеd соmрutіng роwеr fоr 360° РurеVіdео
  • Еquірреd wіth FlоwЅtаtе ѕtаbіlіѕаtіоn аnd 360° Ноrіzоn Lосk
  • 5.7К 60fрѕ Асtіvе НDR mоdе fоr іmрrеѕѕіvе dеtаіlѕ аnd соlоurѕ
  • Іnvіѕіblе Ѕеlfіе Ѕtісk Еffесt wіll dіѕарреаr frоm fооtаgе
  • ІnѕtаFrаmе Моdе fоr іnѕtаntlу ѕhаrеаblе flаt vіdео
  • Еdіt 360° fооtаgе wіth АІ-роwеrеd rеfrаmіng tооlѕ іn Іnѕtа360 арр
  • Аdvаnсеd АІ аutоmаtісаllу fіndѕ hіghlіghtѕ fоr quісk еdіtѕ
  • Іnѕtа360+ Сlоud Ѕеrvісе fоr ѕtоrаgе, bасkuр, ѕhаrіng, аnd mоrе
  • Nеw multі-lауеr ѕtееl mеѕh Wіnd Guаrd fоr сlеаr аudіо
  • Nеw 2400mАh bаttеrу fоr uр tо 185 mіnutеѕ оf rесоrdіng
  • ІР68 wаtеrрrооfіng uр tо 15m (49ft) wіthоut а dіvе саѕе
  • Rерlасеаblе lеnѕеѕ аrе аvаіlаblе fоr еnhаnсеd lоngеvіtу

Insta360 Unveils X5: The Smartest, Toughest 360° Camera Ever Made

Insta360, the world’s best-selling 360° camera brand, is thrilled to announce Insta360 X5, its latest flagship camera. Combining groundbreaking image quality, rugged durability, and AI-powered ease of use, X5 sets a new benchmark for what 360° cameras can achieve.

X5's larger 1/1.28" sensors and lightning-fast Triple AI Chip system deliver a dramatic leap in image quality across all resolutions, including stunning 8K30fps 360° video. With PureVideo, a new AI-powered low-light mode, X5 achieves crisp, cinematic footage in challenging lighting.

Built for adventure, this is the toughest 360° camera ever. Its lenses are crafted from a new ultra-durable glass, while a first-of-its-kind replaceable lens system sets a new standard for the industry, allowing you to swap out damaged lenses on the go. Further hardware upgrades like a built-in wind guard, extended 3-hour battery life, and waterproofing to 49ft, make X5 the ultimate companion for active creators.

From shooting to sharing, X5 makes 360° creation effortless. The all-new InstaFrame Mode simultaneously captures an auto-framed, ready-to-share flat video and a full 360° video to fine-tune later. The Insta360 app has undergone a transformation with more intuitive editing tools, and X5 pairs with the Insta360+ cloud service, where you can instantly share 360º clips, edit on the cloud, and more.

"X5 redefines 360° cameras by solving creators' real challenges," said JK Liu, Insta360's Founder. "From replaceable lenses to AI-powered low-light shooting, we've built our dream camera—rugged enough for adventure, capable enough to produce high quality footage, and intelligent enough to capture epic moments effortlessly."

Insta360 X5 is available to order from April 22, 2025, via the Insta360 Official Store, Amazon, and select retailers, priced at US$549.99.

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Sony announced a new FE 50-150mm f/2 GM lens, pre-orders now open



Sony announced a new FE 50-150mm f/2 GM lens, pre-orders just opened in the US:

Joining Sony’s premium lens range, the FE 50-150mm f2 G Master is built for versatility and creative expression. With its constant f2 aperture, the lens offers expressive depth of field control and enhanced performance in low light. Its intricate optical design, paired with four XD linear AF motors, delivers fast, precise autofocusing and exceptional sharpness across the frame. It's impressively sleek and mobile, making it ideal for weddings, events and sports.

Versatile telephoto zoom range

Made for portraits, weddings & sports

Sony G Master optical performance

Constant f2 aperture

Four XD linear AF motors

Dust and moisture resistant

Sony FE 50-150mm f/2 GM Announced

Sony Electronics Launches FE 50-150MM F2 GM Press Release

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Schneider Kreuznach × LK Samyang 14-24mm f/2.8 lens for Sony E-mount officially announced


The previously reported Schneider Kreuznach × LK Samyang 14-24mm f/2.8 lens for Sony E-mount is now officially announced:

  • Compact design
  • Filter size: 77mm
  • Minimum focusing distance: 18cm
  • Sample photos
  • Technological Innovation: The world’s first 14-24mm (Sony E) compatible super-wide zoom lens allows front filters
  • Ultra-Close-Up Shooting: Minimum focusing distance of just 0.18m
  • Compact & Lightweight Design: Dimensions: 88.8 x 84.0mm | Weight: 445g
  • Jointly Developed with LK Samyang: A perfect blend of German optical expertise and advanced manufacturing technology

Additional information on the new Schneider Kreuznach x LK Samyang 14-24mm f/2.8 lens

Additional information on the new Schneider Kreuznach x LK Samyang 14-24mm f/2.8 lens (+ first sample photos)

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The 7Artisans AF 24mm f/1.8 lens (E/L/Z) will be released soon


The 7Artisans AF 24mm f/1.8 lens (E/L/Z) is set to be officially released in the next few days. Here are the latest details of the lens (check the official website for updates):

1. F1.8 Aperture: Creativity Unlocked

The F1.8 maximum aperture delivers striking shallow depth of field for dramatic foreground-background separation, while excelling in dimly lit environments. Ideal for astrophotography, environmental portraits, or capturing bustling cityscapes with minimal noise.

2. Full-Frame Autofocus: Fast and Reliable

7Artisans’ debut AF system prioritizes speed and accuracy, leveraging a stepping motor for near-silent, responsive focus transitions—perfect for hybrid shooters balancing stills and video.

3. Multi-Mount Versatility

Available in E, L and Z systems, the lens caters to a broad range of full-frame mirrorless users.

4. Optical Prowess

While full specs remain under wraps, 7Artisans promises edge-to-edge sharpness and minimized distortion—critical for architectural and landscape work—along with robust flare resistance for backlit scenes.

Ten new 7Artisans autofocus lenses (Z/E/L/X) displayed at the IBC show in Amsterdam #IBC2024

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The Schneider Kreuznach × LK Samyang 14-24mm f/2.8 lens will be officially announced next week

The previously reported Schneider Kreuznach × LK Samyang 14-24mm f/2.8 lens for Sony E-mount will be officially announced next week on April 22:

  • Compact design
  • Filter size: 77mm
  • Minimum focusing distance: 18cm
  • Expected price: around $1,000
  • Sample photos
  • Technological Innovation: The world’s first 14-24mm (Sony E) compatible super-wide zoom lens allows front filters
  • Ultra-Close-Up Shooting: Minimum focusing distance of just 0.18m
  • Compact & Lightweight Design: Dimensions: 88.8 x 84.0mm | Weight: 445g
  • Jointly Developed with LK Samyang: A perfect blend of German optical expertise and advanced manufacturing technology

Additional information on the new Schneider Kreuznach x LK Samyang 14-24mm f/2.8 lens

Additional information on the new Schneider Kreuznach x LK Samyang 14-24mm f/2.8 lens (+ first sample photos)

Surprise: Schneider Kreuznach x LK Samyang 14-24mm f/2.8 lens for Sony E-mount (2025 CP+)

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Insta360 is teasing a new camera announcement for April 22

 
Insta360 has released a teaser for a new camera, which will be officially announced next week on April 22. The slogan of hew new model is "All Day. All Night. All Angles. Our Next Camera":

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Sigma BF camera and Sigma I series lenses shortages announced

Sigma announced product shortages for the new BF camera and I series lenses:

Apology regarding the "Sigma BF" supply situation

Thank you for your patronage of Sigma products. As we announced on April 7th , we have received more orders than we expected for the full-frame mirrorless camera "Sigma BF (Black/Silver)" scheduled to be released on Thursday, April 24th, 2025. Despite our limited production capacity, we are unable to keep up with demand. As a result, it may take some time for some customers to receive their products.

We apologize to our customers and other parties involved who have been waiting for the product for any inconvenience caused, but we are currently working hard to produce the product, so we ask that you please wait for a little longer.

Apology regarding the supply situation of the "Sigma I Series (Renewal 3 Models)"

Thank you for your patronage of Sigma products. We have received more orders than we expected for the "Sigma I Series (Renewal 3 Models)," which is scheduled to be released on Thursday, April 24, 2025, and production is unable to keep up with demand. As a result, it may take some time for some customers to receive their products.

We apologize to our customers and other parties involved who have been waiting for the product for any inconvenience caused, but we are currently working hard to produce the product, so we ask that you please wait for a little longer.

Sigma BF camera hands-on pictures from NYC pop-up store

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Canon has rolled out automated production lines for cameras and interchangeable lenses

Canon automated production process for interchangeable lenses

In their latest annual report, Canon announced that it has rolled out automated production lines for cameras and interchangeable lenses to further enhance productivity:

Productivity Improvements Through Automation and In-House Production

Canon aims to achieve further production efficiency by leveraging technologies cultivated in different businesses regardless of divisions and by collaboration among design, production engineering, and manufacturing sites, to refine its automation and in-house production technologies. In addition to key devices and components, we are also actively pursuing in-house production of production equipment and molding dies. Following toner cartridges, we have rolled out automated production lines for cameras and interchangeable lenses to further enhance productivity.

Source: Canon annual report

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Sigma still committed to Foveon, they are now almost at the final stage of technology development

In a recent interview with Dpreview, Sigma CEO Kazuto Yamaki reiterated his company's commitment to Foveon and confirmed that they are now almost at the final stage of technology development. Here is the recap of the interview:

  • Sigma’s Commitment to Foveon: Sigma CEO Kazuto Yamaki confirms ongoing development of a full-frame Foveon sensor, despite slow progress, emphasizing his dedication to the project.
  • Development Challenges: The project was moved from the US to Japan, requiring a restart from scratch, which has extended the timeline significantly.
  • Market Stability Concerns: Yamaki notes the camera market appears stable but warns that positive sales figures may mask long-term issues.
  • Foveon Sensor Benefits: Yamaki highlights the unique image quality of Foveon sensors, particularly in color gradation due to crosstalk between RGB layers, which he believes offers a distinct advantage over Bayer sensors.
  • Limitations Acknowledged: Foveon sensors face challenges with noise and low-light performance compared to Bayer sensors, making them less user-friendly and not suitable for all photographers.
  • Niche Appeal: Yamaki acknowledges that even a successful Foveon sensor may not lead to high sales volumes but believes it will still hold significant value for a niche audience.
  • Sigma BF Philosophy: The interview touches on the Sigma BF camera, inspired by the philosophy of "beautiful foolishness," reflecting a design focus on joy and aesthetics in photography.
  • Industry Context: The article mentions other camera industry developments, such as the Nothing Phone 3a’s camera features and a new 50MP OmniVision sensor, but these are not directly tied to Sigma’s efforts.

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